U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced the arrest and charging of Oscar David Contreras Guzman, a 49-year-old citizen of El Salvador, with making a false statement. This charge could lead to a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sasha Mascarenhas explained that Guzman was apprehended on May 17, 2025, at the Lewiston Bridge Port of Entry while driving a commercial truck with Maryland license plates. During primary inspection, Guzman presented a Maryland State Driver’s License and claimed Mexican citizenship. He also mentioned being denied entry into Canada due to an incorrect turn onto the Lewiston Bridge while heading to Michigan. Referred for secondary inspection to verify his immigration status, Guzman again stated he was from Mexico and showed a Mexican Consular ID card. However, fingerprint checks revealed his true identity as Oscar David Contreras Guzman from El Salvador, who had been deported from the United States in April 2007.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, an initiative by the Department of Justice aimed at combating illegal immigration and transnational criminal organizations while protecting communities from violent crime.
The investigation leading to this complaint was conducted by Customs and Border Protection under the leadership of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy.
It is important to note that charges are merely accusations at this stage; Guzman is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
